McGhee not sorry over his O'Brien comments

Published on Friday 20 November 2009 22:53

ABERDEEN manager Mark McGhee has maintained his innocence over comments made about Motherwell winger Jim O'Brien.

McGhee last week admitted O'Brien, whose contract expires at the end of the season, fitted his transfer target criteria after being quizzed over reports he was set to offer the 22-year-old a pre-contract deal. Jim Gannon, McGhee's successor as Motherwell manager, claimed it was "inappropriate" for other managers to talk about his contracted players. But McGhee, on the eve of his first visit to Fir Park since leaving the club in June, insisted he had done nothing wrong.

"When I was asked about Jim O'Brien I was very, very careful not to transgress any rules," he said. "I have certainly done nothing that I have to be embarrassed about or answer for."

The controversy has added even more spice to today's Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash after the first meeting between the teams this season was marred by extreme abuse directed at McGhee from a section of the Motherwell support.

"I'm looking forward to it," he said. "I had two great years there and have still got a lot of friends there. I expect there to be an element who want to abuse me but I can take it."

McGhee added: "The spice for me is that we're looking better. There is the possibility that our season is just starting now and that's the tension and that's the motivation for us. We feel we are probably in the best shape we have been since I got here. The players look as if we are really getting up to speed. I'm excited about what we're going to see from our lot, so we are full of anticipation."

Motherwell, who sit four points ahead of Aberdeen, are expected to have on-loan Everton goalkeeper John Ruddy back after a groin injury.

Meanwhile, Tom Hateley has declared himself "more than happy" with life at Fir Park as he and his young team-mates aim to continue their solid start to the season. The 20-year-old has impressed in a holding midfield role and was receptive when asked if he would consider extending his present one-year contract.

"I'm more than happy," he said. "I've really enjoyed my time here so far. The players have been great, the fans have been great, the management, too. It's been really enjoyable so far and I'll just see what happens. But there is a great togetherness in the camp, and the manager on the training pitch is also positive. Everyone likes playing with each other."